Formulation of zolmitriptan sublingual tablets prepared by direct compression with different polymers: In vitro and in vivo evaluation

Fabrication of Oro-Dispersible Sodium Valproate-Loaded Nanofibrous Patches for Immediate Epileptic Innervation

Epilepsy is one of the oldest neurological disorders discovered by mankind. This condition is firmly coupled with unprovoked seizures stimulated by irrepressible neuroelectrical blasts. Orally taken valproate family has been employed for prophylactic management; however, oral administration is not applicable for critical scenarios, thus calling for medication routes fulfilling necessities of immediate innervation. In order to address this shortcoming, sodium valproate entrapped in poly(ethylene oxide)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PEO/PVP) nanofibrous patches was developed with the aim of sublingual drug delivery. Initially, the production process was designed and optimized via the central composite design (CCD). Nanofiber fabrication was accomplished with a novel device by using the pressurized gyration method. Fabricated biomaterials were chemically, spatially, and thermally inspected. The beanless and homogeneous appearance of both virgin and impregnated nanofibrous patches was morphologically demonstrated via scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, adequately oro-dispersed impregnated patches released more than 90% of their drug content in under a minute. Following in vitro cyto-safety assurance acquired through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay on SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, the protective antiepileptic effect of impregnated patches was affirmed in vivo via pentylenetetrazole kindled-induced Mus musculus animal modeling. The parameter of in vivo behavioral evaluation was the Racine scoring system. Moreover, histopathological distinctions detected between different test groups were highlighted via fluorescence staining. Finally, the oxidative stress was determined according to quantitative variations of malondialdehyde, glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels. The overall conclusion herein suggests that sodium valproate-loaded PEO/PVP nanofibrous patches strikingly prevented behavioral, structural, and oxidative deteriorations caused by pentylenetetrazole.

In Vitro Neuroprotective Effect Evaluation of Donepezil‐Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles‐Embedded PVA/PEG Nanofibers on SH‐SY5Y Cells and AP‐APP Plasmid Related Alzheimer Cell Line Model

Recently developed nanoparticles and nanofibers present new brain‐specific treatment strategies, especially for Alzheimer's disease treatment. In this study, donepezil (DO)‐loaded PLGA nanoparticles (DNP) are embedded in PVA/PEG nanofibers (DNPF) produced by pressurized gyration for sublingual administration. SEM images showed produced drug‐loaded and pure nanofibers, which have sizes between 978 and 1123 nm, demonstrated beadless morphology and homogeneous distribution. FT‐IR, XRD, and DSC results proved the produced nanoparticles and fibers to consist of the DO and other polymers. The in vitro drug release test presented that the release profile of DO is completed at the end of the 18th day. It is released by the first order kinetic model. DNPF has an ultra‐fast release profile via its disintegration within 2 sec, which proved itself to be suitable for the administration sublingually. All samples presented above ≈90% cell viability via their non‐toxic natures on SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells by using Alamar blue assay. The anti‐Alzheimer effects of DO, DNP, and DNPF are evaluated on the Aβ1−42‐induced SH‐SY5Y cells at 1, 5, and 10 µM as treatment groups. The 1 µM dosage exhibited the most significant neuroprotective effects, which showed enhanced cellular uptake and superior modulation of Alzheimer's‐related proteins, including tau and Aβ.

In Vitro Neuroprotective Effect Evaluation of Donepezil‐Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles‐Embedded PVA/PEG Nanofibers on SH‐SY5Y Cells and AP‐APP Plasmid Related Alzheimer Cell Line Model

Recently developed nanoparticles and nanofibers present new brain‐specific treatment strategies, especially for Alzheimer's disease treatment. In this study, donepezil (DO)‐loaded PLGA nanoparticles (DNP) are embedded in PVA/PEG nanofibers (DNPF) produced by pressurized gyration for sublingual administration. SEM images showed produced drug‐loaded and pure nanofibers, which have sizes between 978 and 1123 nm, demonstrated beadless morphology and homogeneous distribution. FT‐IR, XRD, and DSC results proved the produced nanoparticles and fibers to consist of the DO and other polymers. The in vitro drug release test presented that the release profile of DO is completed at the end of the 18th day. It is released by the first order kinetic model. DNPF has an ultra‐fast release profile via its disintegration within 2 sec, which proved itself to be suitable for the administration sublingually. All samples presented above ≈90% cell viability via their non‐toxic natures on SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells by using Alamar blue assay. The anti‐Alzheimer effects of DO, DNP, and DNPF are evaluated on the Aβ1−42‐induced SH‐SY5Y cells at 1, 5, and 10 µM as treatment groups. The 1 µM dosage exhibited the most significant neuroprotective effects, which showed enhanced cellular uptake and superior modulation of Alzheimer's‐related proteins, including tau and Aβ.

Sublingual permeability of model drugs in New Zealand White Rabbits: In Vitro-In vivo correlation

This study investigated sublingual drug permeation and administration using five model drugs with diverse physicochemical properties, employing New Zealand White Rabbit sublingual mucosa for in vitro experiments and New Zealand White Rabbits for in vivo studies. The research aimed to determine key permeation parameters, specifically permeability and lag time. A strong linear correlation (r = 0.93, n = 5) was established between in vitro permeability and the distribution coefficient of the model drugs at pH 6.8. The study revealed no significant difference between in vitro and in vivo permeability, suggesting that in vitro studies can reliably predict in vivo permeability for these drugs. However, the in vivo lag time was significantly shorter than the in vitro lag time due to the presence of capillaries in the sublingual mucosa, which provided direct access to the systemic circulation and the absence of an aqueous boundary layer.

Permeability of triamcinolone acetonide, released from mucoadhesive films, through a buccal mucosa-mimetic barrier: Permeapad™

OBJECTIVES

The permeability of triamcinolone acetonide (TA), from bilayer mucoadhesive buccal films, through a biomimetic membrane, Permeapad™, was investigated employing Franz diffusion cell. The delivery systems composition and ethyl cellulose (EC) backing layer, on drug permeability, were assessed.

METHODS

Three TA-loaded films were tested; hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC K4M; bilayer [F1] and monolayer), HPMC K4M/Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP): 90/10 [F2], and HPMC K15M film [F3]. All films contained propylene glycol (PG-plasticiser). TA solution alone was used as a control. TA permeability via a Permeapad™ barrier, simulating buccal mucosa, was assessed over 8 h using a Franz diffusion cell. TA permeated into the receptor compartment, released in the donor compartment, and located on/within the Permeapad™ barrier were analysed using UV-spectrophotometer.

RESULTS

45.7 % drug retention within the Permeapad™ barrier was delivered from F1 (highest). F1, F2, and F3 significantly improved the TA's permeability through Permeapad™, compared to TA solution alone (e.g., 8.5 % TA-solution, 21.5 %-F1), attributed to the synergy effect of HPMC and propylene glycol acting as penetration enhancers. F1 displayed a significant increase in drug permeability (receptor compartment; 21.5 %) compared to F3 (17.0 %). PVP significantly enhanced drug permeability (27.5 %). Impermeable EC backing layer controlled unidirectional drug release and reduced drug loss into the donor compartment (e.g., ∼28 % for monolayer film to ∼10 % for bilayer film, F1).

SIGNIFICANCE

The mucoadhesive films demonstrated improved TA permeability via Permeapad™. The findings suggest that these bilayer mucoadhesive films, particularly F1, hold promise for the effective topical treatment of oral mucosa disorders, such as recurrent aphthous stomatitis and oral lichen planus.

Increase in plasma resveratrol levels and in acid-resistant proteins in the acquired enamel pellicle after use of resveratrol-containing orodispersible tablets

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the effect of administration of trans-resveratrol-containing orodispersible tablets on the protein composition of the AEP and on blood plasma trans-resveratrol concentrations.

METHODS

Ten volunteers participated in two crossover double-blind phases. In each phase, after dental prophylaxis, they received a trans-resveratrol (15 mg) orodispersible tablet, or a placebo tablet (without actives). The AEP formed after 120 min was collected with electrode filter papers soaked in 3 % citric acid. Blood samples were collected 30, 45, 60 and 120 min after the use of the tablet. After protein extraction, AEP samples were analyzed by shotgun labelfree quantitative proteomics and plasma samples were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

RESULTS

Eight hundred and two proteins were identified in the AEP. Among them, 336 and 213 were unique to the trans-resveratrol and control groups, respectively, while 253 were common to both groups. Proteins with important functions in the AEP had increased expression in the trans-resveratroltreated group, such as neutrophil defensins, S100 protein isoforms, lysozyme C, cystatin-D, mucin-7, alphaamylase, albumin, haptoglobin and statherin. Trans-resveratrol was detected in the plasma at all the times evaluated, with the peak at 30 min.

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of trans-resveratrol in sublingual orodispersible tablets was effective both to increase the bioavailability of the polyphenol and the expression of antibacterial and acid-resistant proteins in the AEP, which might benefit oral and general health.

Application of Tablet in Tablet technique to design and characterize immediate and modified release tablets of Timolol maleate

Hypertension is one of the major causes of mortality in the world. The non-selective -β-blocker which includes Timolol maleate (TM) is usually used in hypertension, at a given dose of 10-40 mg. The present research aims to design a tablet-in-tablet (TIT) formulation as a single-unit dosage form to achieve modified and rapid drug release. Wet granulation was used to create the inner core modified release tablet utilising the release modifying agent's Sodium alginate (SA) and Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC K4M). The impact of independent factors, SA and HPMC K4M, in different percentages of w/w, which affect the in vitro drug release and swelling index, was investigated using a 32 complete factorial design. The TM outer instant-release shell, which was made using croscarmellose sodium and Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) in three distinct sizes, was press-coated onto the optimised inner core tablet. The core and outer shell tablets are within acceptable ranges for several physicochemical properties. No indication of interactions between drugs, polymers, and excipients was found in the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) investigations. The inner core tablet's formulation F6 achieves a 96.38% in vitro drug release at 24 h and a swelling index of 52.7%. The TIT-2 was, however, considered as the final tablet-in-tablet formulation because contains fewer excipients and shorter disintegration time than TIT-3.

The Preparation and Evaluation of Cyanocobalamin Mucoadhesive Sublingual Tablets

Cobalamin (vitamin B12), an essential vitamin with low oral bioavailability, plays a vital role in cellular functions. This research aimed to enhance the absorption of vitamin B12 using sublingual mucoadhesive tablets by increasing the residence time of the drug at the administration site. This research involved the preparation of different 50 mg placebo formulas using different methods. Formulas with disintegration times less than one minute and appropriate physical characteristics were incorporated into 1 mg of cyanocobalamin (S1-S20) using the direct compression method. The tablets obtained were evaluated ex vivo for residence time, and only those remaining for >15 min were included. The final formulas (S5, S8, S11, and S20) were evaluated in several ways, including pre- and post-compression, drug content, mucoadhesive strength, dissolution, and Permeapad® permeation test employed in the Franz diffusion cell. After conducting the evaluation, formula S11 (Eudragit L100-55) emerged as the most favorable formulation. It exhibited a mucoadhesive residence time of 118.2 ± 2.89 min, required a detachment force of 26 ± 1 g, maintained a drug content of 99.124 ± 0.001699%, and achieved a 76.85% drug release over 22 h, fitting well with the Peppas-Sahlin kinetic model (R2: 0.9949). This suggests that the drug release process encompasses the Fickian and non-Fickian kinetic mechanisms. Furthermore, Eudragit L100-55 demonstrated the highest permeability, boasting a flux value of 6.387 ± 1.860 µg/h/cm2; over 6 h. These findings indicate that including this polymer in the formulation leads to an improved residence time, which positively impacts bioavailability.

Lactose in tablets: Functionality, critical material attributes, applications, modifications and co-processed excipients

Lactose is one of the most widespread excipients used in the pharmaceutical industry. Because of its water solubility and acceptable flowability, lactose is generally added into tablet formulation to improve wettability and undesirable flowability. Based on Quality by Design, a better understanding of the critical material attributes (CMAs) of raw materials is beneficial in guiding the improvement of tablet quality and the development of lactose. Additionally, the modifications and co-processing of lactose can introduce more-desirable characteristics to the resulting particles. This review focuses on the functionality, CMAs, applications, modifications and co-processing of lactose in tablets.

Evaluation of Brain Targeting Potential of Zolmitriptan Mucoadhesive Nanoparticles for Intranasal Drug Delivery

BACKGROUND

Hydrophilic drugs are poor applicants of brain targeting via oral route due to the presence of blood-brain barrier that allows only small lipophilic molecules to freely access the brain. Due to unique anatomical connections between the nasal cavity and the brain, intranasal administration can be explored for drug delivery to the brain directly that circumvents blood-brain barrier too.

OBJECTIVES

Zolmitriptan is a widely used antimigraine drug and its brain targeting by nasal route in form of mucoadhesive nanoparticles is more effective in migraine treatment as it provide fast relief and good bioavailability as compared to its oral drug delivery. In the present study zolmitriptan mucoadhesive nanoparticles were prepared to improve the bioavailability and brain targeting for the better management of Migraine attacks.

METHODS

The mucoadhesive polymeric nanoparticles of zolmitriptan were formulated by modified ionic gelation method using thiolated chitosan. The pharmacokinetic parameters were counted in male Wistar rats by intranasal and oral delivery of anti-migraine drug zolmitriptan and compared statistically. The concentration of zolmitriptan in the blood plasma and brain samples was determined by using liquid-liquid extraction method followed by a reversed- phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis. The pharmacodynamic analysis was done in adult male Swiss albino mice by behavioral models, light/dark box model, and acetic acid- induced writhing (abdominal stretching or constriction). These tests were used to reproduce the important associated symptoms of migraine viz. hyperalgesia (nociceptive sensitization) and photophobia for the assessment of the therapeutic potential of intranasal delivery of nanoparticles for anti-migraine activity.

RESULTS

The absolute bioavailability accessed for Zolmitriptan nanoparticles by IN route was found to be very high (193%), suggested that the sufficient amount drug transported by nanoparticles and DTE ratio was calculated 2.8, revealed better nose to brain transport by zolmitriptan nanoparticles as compared to oral delivery in male Wistar rats. A Significant increase in tolerance capacity of animals to bright light and fall in the numbers of stretching in mice suggested that the better management of migraine-associated symptoms by the zolmitriptan nanoparticles.

CONCLUSION

Thus present study confers the significance of nasal drug delivery for brain targeting of zolmitriptan nanoparticles for the treatment of migraine.

Scalable flibanserin nanocrystal-based novel sublingual platform for female hypoactive sexual desire disorder: engineering, optimization adopting the desirability function approach and in vivo pharmacokinetic study

Flibanserin (FLB) was approved by FDA for the treatment of pre-menopausal female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). FLB suffers from low oral bioavailability (33%) which might be due to hepatic first-pass metabolism in addition to its poor aqueous solubility. The sublingual route could be a promising alternative for FLB due to the avoidance of enterohepatic circulation. However, the drug needs to dissolve in the small volume of saliva in order to be absorbed through the sublingual mucosa. Therefore, FLB nanocrystals were prepared by sono-precipitation technique according to 23 full factorial design. FLB-nanocrystals were formulated using two surfactants (PVP K30 and PL F127) in two different amounts (200 and 400 mg) and the volume of ethanol was either 3 or 5 mL. Nanocrystal formulation was optimized according to the desirability function to have a minimum particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, and maximum saturated solubility. The optimized formula had a particle size of 443.12 ± 14.91 nm and a saturated solubility of 23.27 ± 4.62 mg/L which is five times the saturated solubility of FLB. Nanocrystal dispersion of the optimized formula was solidified by freeze-drying and used to prepare rapidly disintegrating sublingual tablets containing Pharmaburst® as superdisintegrant. Sublingual tablet formulation with the shortest disintegration time (36 s) was selected for the in vivo study. FLB nanocrystal-based sublingual tablets exhibited a two-fold increase in bioavailability with a faster onset of action compared to the commercially available oral formulation. These findings prove the potential application of FLB nanocrystal-based sublingual tablets in the treatment of HSDD.

Improvement of Resveratrol Permeation through Sublingual Mucosa: Chemical Permeation Enhancers versus Spray Drying Technique to Obtain Fast-Disintegrating Sublingual Mini-Tablets

Resveratrol (RSV) is a natural polyphenol with several interesting broad-spectrum pharmacological properties. However, it is characterized by poor oral bioavailability, extensive first-pass effect metabolism and low stability. Indeed, RSV could benefit from the advantage of the sublingual route of administration. In this view, RSV attitudes to crossing the porcine sublingual mucosa were evaluated and promoted both by six different chemical permeation enhancers (CPEs) as well as by preparing four innovative fast-disintegrating sublingual mini-tablets by spray drying followed by direct compression. Since RSV by itself exhibits a low permeation aptitude, this could be significantly enhanced by the use of CPEs as well as by embedding RSV in a spray-dried powder to be compressed in order to prepare fast-disintegrating mini-tablets. The most promising observed CPEs (menthol, lysine and urea) were then inserted into the most promising spray-dried excipients' compositions (RSV-B and RSV-C), thus preparing CPE-loaded mini-tablets. However, this procedure leads to unsatisfactory results which preclude the possibility of merging the two proposed approaches. Finally, the best spray-dried composition (RSV-B) was further evaluated by SEM, FTIR, XRD and disintegration as well as dissolution behavior to prove its effectiveness as a sublingual fast-disintegrating formulation.

Exploitation of Design-of-Experiment Approach for Design and Optimization of Fast-Disintegrating Tablets for Sublingual Delivery of Sildenafil Citrate with Enhanced Bioavailability Using Fluid-Bed Granulation Technique

Sildenafil citrate undergoes first-pass metabolism, resulting in poor oral bioavailability at 25-41% of the administered dose. This study aimed to design and optimize fast-disintegrating tablets for the sublingual delivery of sildenafil citrate to improve bioavailability and facilitate rapid onset of action. The design-of-experiment (DoE) approach using 32 full factorial design was conducted to develop a new formulation of sildenafil fast-disintegrating sublingual tablets (FDSTs) using the fluid-bed granulation technique. The levels of partially pre-gelatinized starch (5-15%) and microcrystalline cellulose (10-60%) were selected as independent formulation variables. The prepared FDSTs were investigated for physical properties. Further, the optimum formulation was chosen for in vivo study in rabbits. Regression analysis showed that independent variables have a significant (p < 0.05) influence on critical attributes of FDSTs. The optimized formulation showed acceptable mechanical strength (friability < 1.0%) with very fast disintegration (14.561 ± 0.84 s) and dissolution (94.734 ± 2.76% after 15 min). Further, the optimized formulation demonstrated a significant increase (p < 0.01) in Cmax and AUC0-∞ with short tmax compared to the market product (Viagra®). Based on these results, using the DoE approach, a high level of assurance was achieved for FDSTs' product quality and performance.

Preparation and optimization of fast disintegrating tablets of isosorbide dinitrate using lyophilization method for oral drug delivery

Background: Orally disintegrating tablets rapidly disintegrate in saliva and then swallowed without the need for water. Materials & methods: The orally disintegrating tablets were prepared by freeze-drying of an aqueous dispersion of isosorbide dinitrate containing a matrix former (gelatin), a cryoprotectant (mannitol), a plasticizer (glycerin) and a dissolution enhancer (Tween/polyethylene glycol). Results: Results demonstrated that the selected formulation, Ft₉, disintegrated within 1 min and showed faster dissolution rate compared with the commercial tablet. Conclusion: Having a fast disintegration time, the developed lyophilized tablet does not need to be swallowed as a whole. So, it is a convenient solid oral dosage form for the patients who have difficulty with swallowing such as the pediatric and elderly ones.

Progress in Drug and Formulation Development for the Chemoprevention of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Review

BACKGROUND

Cancer is a life-threatening global problem with high incidence rates. Prioritizing the prevention of cancer, chemopreventive agents have drawn much attention from the researchers.

OBJECTIVE

This review focuses on the discussion of the progress in the development of chemopreventive agents and formulations related to the prevention of oral cancer.

METHODS

In this perspective, an extensive literature survey was carried out to understand the mechanism, control and chemoprevention of oral cancer. Different patented agents and formulations have also exhibited cancer preventive efficacy in experimental studies. This review summarizes the etiology of oral cancer and developments in prevention strategies.

RESULTS

The growth of oral cancer is a multistep activity necessitating the accumulation of genetic as well as epigenetic alterations in key regulatory genes. Many risk factors are associated with oral cancer. Genomic technique for sequencing all tumor specimens has been made available to help detect mutations. The recent development of molecular pathway and genetic tools has made the process of diagnosis easier, better forecast and efficient therapeutic management. Different chemical agents have been studied for their efficacy to prevent oral cancer and some of them have shown promising results.

CONCLUSION

Use of chemopreventive agents, either synthetic or natural origin, to prevent carcinogenesis is a worthy concept in the management of cancers. Preventive measures are helpful in controlling the occurrence or severity of the disease. The demonstrated results of preventive agents have opened an arena for the development of promising chemopreventive agents in the management of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Ultra-fast disintegrating ODTs comprising viable probiotic bacteria and HPMC as a mucoadhesive

Orodispersible tablets (ODTs) are a convenient dosage form and a recent trend in formulation development. The fast disintegration is accompanied by rapid removal of the active principle and the excipients from the mouth due to saliva flow and swallowing. Probiotic bacteria are a promising strategy to fight disease with bacterial aetiology in the mouth, but a certain residence time in the oral cavity is inevitable to exert their positive effects. The addition of a mucoadhesive polymer, like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), is an auspicious strategy to prolong this residence time. Nevertheless, the disintegration time of the tablets should still meet the acceptance level from the FDA (<30 s). To reach intimate contact of bacteria and mucoadhesive polymer on the one hand and to support fast disintegration on the other hand, granulation of probiotic bacteria and mucoadhesive HPMC with a methacrylic acid copolymer was performed first. Moreover, high mucoadhesion could be obtained because bacteria and mucoadhesive polymer could interact more strongly with the mucosa after the ODT disintegrated and the methacrylic acid copolymer dissolved in the pH neutral saliva.

Improvement of bone microarchitecture in methylprednisolone induced rat model of osteoporosis by using thiolated chitosan-based risedronate mucoadhesive film

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we investigated the potential of thiolated chitosan-based mucoadhesive film, loaded with risedronate sodium in the treatment of osteoporosis.

SIGNIFICANCE

Risedronate sodium is a bisphosphonate derivative having very low bioavailability when administered through the oral route. Moreover, the adverse effects associated with the drug when administered through GIT necessitate an alternative and feasible route which can improve its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy.

METHODS

Thiolation of chitosan was interpreted by different analytical techniques. The mucoadhesive films were prepared by the solvent evaporation method and evaluated for drug content analysis, swelling degree, mucoadhesive parameters, and permeation characterization. For the screening of preclinical efficacy and pharmacodynamic parameters, a methylprednisolone induced osteoporotic rat model was used. The trabecular microarchitecture and biochemical markers were evaluated for determination of bone resorption.

RESULTS

The different analytical characterization of synthesized thiolated chitosan revealed that chitosan was successfully incorporated with thiol groups. The formulation containing 2:1 ratio of thiolated chitosan and HPMC-4KM was found to have the maximum swelling degree, mucoadhesive strength with a good force of adhesion and better in vitro permeability compared to the marketed formulation. With respect to trabecular microarchitecture, the drug-loaded film formulation showed superior and promising results. Furthermore, the film formulation also improved the serum level of biomarkers better than the marketed formulation.

CONCLUSIONS

The results significantly suggest that risedronate loaded novel mucoadhesive film formulation could be a logical approach in the therapeutic intervention of osteoporosis.

Laminated chitosan-based composite sponges for transmucosal delivery of novel protamine-decorated tripterine phytosomes: Ex-vivo mucopenetration and in-vivo pharmacokinetic assessments

In the current study, laminated chitosan (CS):hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) composite sponges were exploited as solid matrices for buccal delivery of tripterine phytosomes functionalized with novel mucopenetrating protamine layer (PRT-TRI-PHY). Tripterine (TRI) is a herbal drug widely investigated as a potential anticancer candidate against various types of cancers. However, clinical use of TRI is handicapped by its low oral bioavailability. To surmount TRI pharmaceutical obstacles, TRI phytosomes (TRI-PHY) were prepared using solvent evaporation technique then coated with a protamine layer via electrostatic assembly process. The developed PRT-TRI-PHY showed a nano-metric size of 250 nm and positive zeta potential (+21.6 mV). Sponges loaded with PRT-TRI-PHY demonstrated a sustained release profile with superior mucoadhesion characteristics compared with the counterparts loaded with uncoated TRI-PHY. The ex-vivo permeation study via chicken pouch mucosa revealed that sponges loaded with PRT-TRI-PHY demonstrated 2.3-folds higher flux value compared with sponges loaded with uncoated TRI-PHY. Additionally, in-vivo pharmacokinetic study in healthy rabbits revealed the significantly higher bioavailability of PRT-TRI-PHY compared with TRI-PHY with relative bioavailability of 244%. Conclusively, mucoadhesive CS-HPMC sponges loaded with a novel mucopenetrating nanocarrier, PRT-TRI-PHY, could significantly improve the absorption of tripterine via buccal mucosa which would be of prime importance for its clinical utility.

Effect of polymer type on characteristics of buccal tablets using factorial design

A two factor three level factorial design was used to investigate the effects of carbopol and cationic hydrophilic polymers which have a common use in buccal drug formulations. Statistical models with interaction terms were derived to evaluate influence of carbopol (X1) and chitosan (X2) on tablet disintegration (Y1) and dissolution (Y2), mechanical properties (Y3), swelling (Y4). Tablet disintegration studies were carried out using two different pH environments within buccal region pH limits and also two different commonly used dissolution methods for buccal tablets were also investigated to compare the effect of polymer type on dissolution. Polymer type and ratio affect the characteristics of the buccal tablets due to their different physicochemical behavior at buccal pH. Also significant variances between dissolution profiles for buccal tablets, using either USP Paddle or flow through cell methods were found. These results indicate that both polymer type and ratio as well as combination of them effects the drug behavior in different ways.

Engineering of a novel optimized platform for sublingual delivery with novel characterization tools: in vitro evaluation and in vivo pharmacokinetics study in human

The aim of this work was to develop a novel and more efficient platform for sublingual drug delivery using mosapride citrate (MSP) as a model drug. The engineering of this delivery system had two stages, the first stage was tuning of MSP physicochemical properties by complexation with pure phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylinositol enriched soybean lecithin to form MSP-phospholipid complex (MSP-PLCP). Changes in physicochemical properties were assessed and the optimum MSP-PLCP formula was then used for formulation into a flushing resistant platform using two mucoadhesive polymers; sodium alginates and sodium carboxymethylcellulose at different concentrations. Design of experiment approach was used to characterize and optimize the formulated flushing resistant platform. The optimized formulation was then used in a comparative pharmacokinetics study with the market formulation in human volunteers. Results showed a marked change in MSP physicochemical properties of MSP-PLCP compared to MSP. Addition of mucoadhesive polymers to flushing resistant platform at an optimum concentration balanced between desired mucoadhesive properties and a reasonable drug release rate. The optimized formulation showed significantly a superior bioavailability in humans when compared to the market sublingual product. Finally, the novel developed sublingual flushing resistant platform offers a very promising and efficient tool to extend the use of sublingual route and widen its applications.

Polymeric drug delivery systems for intraoral site-specific chemoprevention of oral cancer

Oral cancer is among the most prevalent cancers in the world. Moreover, it is one of the major health problems and causes of death in many regions of the world. The traditional treatment modalities include surgical removal, radiation therapy, systemic chemotherapy, or a combination of these methods. In recent decades, there has been significant interest in intraoral site-specific chemoprevention via local drug delivery using polymeric systems. Because of its easy accessibility and clear visibility, the oral mucosa is amenable for local drug delivery. A variety of polymeric systems-such as gels, tablets, films, patches, injectable systems (e.g., millicylindrical implants, microparticles, and in situ-forming depots), and nanosized carriers (e.g., polymeric nanoparticles, nanofibers, polymer-drug conjugates, polymeric micelles, nanoliposomes, nanoemulsions, and polymersomes)-have been developed and evaluated for the local delivery of natural and synthetic chemopreventive agents. The findings of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies and the positive outcome of clinical trials demonstrate that intraoral site-specific drug delivery is an attractive, highly effective and patient-friendly strategy for the management of oral cancer. Intraoral site-specific drug delivery provides unique therapeutic advantages when compared to systemic chemotherapy. Moreover, intraoral drug delivery systems are self-administrable and can be removed when needed, increasing patient compliance. This article covers important aspects and advances related to the design, development, and efficacy of polymeric systems for intraoral site-specific drug delivery. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1383-1413, 2018.

Preparation and evaluation of ritodrine buccal tablets for rational therapeutic use

Ritodrine hydrochloride (RD-HCl) tablets containing alginate (AL) and lactose (LC) with or without microcrystalline cellulose (MC) as excipients were produced as a buccal dosage form. The RD-HCl (2 mg) tablets with AL/LC but no MC swelled and dissolved gradually in the in vitro dissolution test. The tablet showing the fastest dissolution and highest drug release rate, called Tablet A1, was selected as a tablet to show rapid and prolonged absorption. However, in the in vivo buccal absorption test using rats, it could not give a plasma concentration over the human minimal effective level (15 ng/mL). The modified tablet containing AL, LC, MC and RD-HCl (4 mg), named Tablet B/MC, showed better hardness and faster drug release. Tablet B/MC gave a plasma concentration over the human effective level within 15 min, and the plasma concentration was maintained at >15 ng/mL over 4 h. Moreover, the deconvolution analyses demonstrated that a prolonged high absorption rate could be achieved in vivo best with Tablet B/MC. Tablet B/MC improved the pharmacokinetic profile in comparison with Tablet A1 and the solution dosage form. The RD-HCl buccal tablets with AL, LC and MC as excipients are suggested to be possibly useful for the treatment of premature labor.

Preparation and evaluation of sublingual tablets of zolmitriptan

AIM

Zolmitriptan is a 5-HT receptor agonist (1B/1D). It is used in the acute treatment of migraine having low bioavailability about 40% orally due to hepatic first pass metabolism. The purpose of the present research was to formulate fast acting sublingual tablets of zolmitriptan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sublingual tablets were prepared using ispaghula husk powder, gellan gum, sodium alginate as super disintegrating polymers and citric acid, tartaric acid and camphor as permeation enhancers by direct compressible technique and evaluated for weight variation, thickness, friability, content uniformity, hardness, disintegration time, wetting time, in-vitro drug release, in-vitro and ex-vivo permeation study. Stability study of optimized formulation was performed as per ICH (International Conference on Harmonisation) guideline.

RESULTS

The in-vitro disintegration time of the optimized formulation (D5) was 9 ± 2 s and all formulations showed 100% of dissolution within 6 ± 2 min. Formulation containing 4% of gellan gum (D5) showed highest disintegration and 2% of citric acid formulation (P3) showed highest permeation 88% within 30 min and ex-vivo permeation was 52% within 30 min. Optimized formulation was stable for 1 month during stability study as per ICH guideline.

CONCLUSION

The sublingual tablet formulation gives better results using natural super disintegrant for fast onset of action.

Sublingual Delivery of Frovatriptan: An Indication of Potential Alternative Route

Frovatriptan, a 5-HT1B and 5-HT1D receptor agonist, is used for the treatment of acute migraine attack. This molecule is classified into second line therapy because of its slow onset of action (peak response obtained after 4 hours of administration) and low bioavailability (25%). Moreover, its therapy is the most costly among all triptans. Attempt has been made in present work to suggest a way out to fasten its onset of action and to enhance its bioavailability. Prepared tablets were evaluated by physicochemical tests, in vitro permeation studies, ex vivo permeation studies, and histopathological studies. Suitable mathematical calculations were performed to calculate the minimum amount of bioavailability that could be enhanced. Tablets containing chitosan (5% w/w) were found to give optimum results. Prepared tablets can double the bioavailability of frovatriptan and can initiate its response within 10 minutes of its administration. Suggestive alternative has the potential to increase the efficacy of frovatriptan for treating acute migraine attack.

Development and evaluation of fixed dose bi therapy sublingual tablets for treatment stress hypertension and anxiety

Objective:

A stress induced rise in the blood pressure. Some believe that patients with hypertension are characterized by a generalized state of increased anxiety.

Aim:

The purpose of this study is to prepare a fixed dose bi therapy using bisoprolol hemifumarate (BH) as antihypertensive drug and buspirone hydrochloride (BuHCl) as anxiolytic drug, which can be used to treat both diseases concomitantly. Using sublingual tablets is hopeful to improve the BuHCl poor oral bioavailability and to facilitate administration to patients experiencing problems with swallowing.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 5mg BH and 10mg BuHCl were selected based on compatibility study. A 3×22 full factorial design was adopted for the optimization of the tablets prepared by direct compression method. The effects of the filler type, the binder molecular weight, and the binder type were studied. The prepared formulae were evaluated according to their physical characters as hardness, friability, disintegration time (new modified method and in vivo disintegration time) and wetting properties. In vitro drugs dissolute, permeation through the buccal mucosa and the effect of storage were analyzed by a new valid high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Bioavailability study of the selected formula study was carried out and followed by the clinical.

Results:

The optimized tablet formulation showed accepted average weight, hardness, wetting time, friability, content uniformity, disintegration time (less than 3 min). Maximum drug release could be achieved with in 10 min. In addition enhancing drug permeation through the buccal mucosa and, the maximum concentration of the drug that reached the blood was in the first 10 min which means a rapid onset of action and improved the extent of both drug's absorption.

Conclusion:

The results revealed that sublingual (F6) tablets containing both drugs would maintain rapid onset of action, and increase bioavailability. BuHCl with BH can be attributed to the marked decline in DBP and SBP. That led to a reduction in the MAP.

Electrospun drug loaded membranes for sublingual administration of sumatriptan and naproxen

Sublingual administration of active pharmaceutical substances is in principle favourable for rapid onset of drug action, ready accessibility and avoidance of first pass metabolism. This administration could prove very useful in the treatment of migraines, thus two frequently used drugs were selected for our study. Sumatriptan succinate, naproxen, and its salt as well as combinations of these were incorporated into nanofibrous membranes via the electrospinning process. DSC measurements proved that the resulted membranes contained non-crystalline drug forms. SEM imaging approved good homogeneity of diameter and shape of the membrane nanofibres. The nanofibrous membranes always showed the rapid and mutually independent release of the tested drugs. The drugs exhibited very high differences in sublingual permeation rates in vitro, but the rates of both substances were increased several times using nanofibrous membranes as the drug carrier in comparison to drug solutions. The released drugs subsequently permeated through sublingual mucosa preferentially as non-ionized moieties. The prepared nanofibrous membranes proved very flexible and mechanically resistant. With their drug load capacity of up to 40% of membrane mass, they could be very advantageous for the formulation of sublingual drug delivery systems.

Nanovesicles system for rapid-onset sublingual delivery containing sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate: in vitro and in vivo evaluation

A novel formulation based on nanovesicles system for rapid-onset sublingual delivery of hydrophilic drug (sodium tanshinone IIA sulfonate, STS) was investigated. The nanovesicles system was composed of 1.5% soybean lecithin, 6% propylene glycol, and penetration enhancers (1% sodium dodecyl sulfate and 0.03% hyaluronan acid). The STS-loaded nanovesicles with an average diameter of 133 ± 9.04 nm and high entrapment efficiency of 85.65 ± 3.89% were characterized. The effects of permeation enhancers on the penetration of STS formulations were investigated using Franz diffusion cells in vitro, showing 86.1-235.8 times higher permeation rate than that of normal STS solution. The rapid symptom relief effect of the nanovesicles system on acute myocardial infarction rabbits was evaluated by in vivo study, ST-segment deviation(S and T wave abnormality in electrocardiogram) was attenuated markedly and rapidly within 5 min, infarct size of heart was significantly reduced and the biochemical indicators were substantially decreased, compared with the control groups (p < 0.05). This study provided a promising tool for the future sublingual delivery of hydrophilic compounds with the noninvasive and rapid onset clinical effect.

Formulation and evaluation of sublingual tablets containing Sumatriptan succinate

Objective:

Sumatriptan succinate is a selective 5-hydroxytryptamine-1 receptor agonist effective in the acute treatment of migraine headaches, having low bioavailability of about 15% orally due to first-pass metabolism. The purpose of this research was to mask the intensely bitter taste of Sumatriptan succinate and to formulate fast-acting, taste-masked sublingual tablet formulation.

Materials and Methods:

Taste masking was performed by solid dispersion method with mannitol and ion exchange with Kyron T 114 because it releases the drug in salivary pH. The resultant batches were evaluated for in-vivo taste masking as well compatability study (Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC)). For a better feel in the mouth, menthol and sweetener Na saccharine were added to the tablet formulation. The tablets were prepared by direct compression and evaluated for weight variation, thickness, friability, drug content, hardness, disintegration time, wetting time, in vitro drug release, and in vitro permeation study.

Results and Discussion:

Optimized batches disintegrated in vitro within 28-34 s. Maximum drug release could be achieved with in 10 min for the solid dispersion batches and 14-15 min for the ion-exchange batches with Kyron T 114. The optimized tablet formulation showed better taste and the formulated sublingual tablets may act as a potential alternate for the Sumatriptan succinate oral tablet.

Conclusion:

Sumatriptan succinate can be successfully taste-masked by both the solid dispersion method using mannitol by the melting method and Ion exchange resin with Kyron T114. It was also concluded that prepared formulation improve bioavailability by prevention of first pass metabolism.